Thursday, December 24, 2009

Another famous musician has got themselves caught up in the drug business. The world renowned reggae artist, Buju Banton, was arrested with two other people allegedly trying to distribute five kilograms of cocaine. Buju Banton (real name is Mark Anthony Myrie), has been in U.S. federal custody in Miami since Thursday. The Associated Press reports, "Drug Enforcement Administration spokesman David Melenkevitz said Sunday that Banton was arrested on a charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. The charge stems from a DEA case in Tampa". One has to wonder why a reggae star, like Buju Banton, would get caught up in the distribution of cocaine of any amount.

On April 5, 2004, Banton was fined $9000 for drug possession and cultivation of cannabis; two mature marijuana plants were found in his studio. Banton's defense was that he had just got back from a tour and the plants were there. It is clear that Banton had a history with drugs, but, two marijuana plants is a far cry from 5 kilos of cocaine. "Gargamel Music Incorporated (Banton's label) has announced loyal support for Banton, real name Mark Anthony Myrie, who was arrested December 10 on federal drug conspiracy charges", according to BET. Buju Banton will have help from one of the top law firms in the country, the legal aid will come in the form of David Oscar Markus. Markus defended the former Panama military dictator Manuel Noriega, so it is fair to say that Marcus is known for high-profile drug cases.

It is not clear yet which direction this case will head, there still are many facts that will need to be considered. It appears that Banton has a long trial ahead of him and there are many people who are against Banton and what he stands for. We will keep you updated as to the progress of this trial.